The inaugural Ricky M’s Dog and Pony car show made a splash — literally. The fundraiser was held on Sunday at Friends Forever Humane Society south of Freeport.

Organizer Rick Mueller agreed to “get wet” if attendees of Sunday’s show raised $500 through the 50/50 raffle to benefit the shelter.

“Well, they raised that in the first hour,” said Mueller. “Then the DJ from 3D Sound said that if they raised another $500 she would jump in.”

They did, and DJ Michelle Hamilton made the plunge into the Friends Forever pond as well.

“We just had an incredible turnout,” said organizer Bill Olmstead. “People came from all over to show support.”

In all, Mueller said the event raised over $2,000 for Friends Forever.

They were also able to help a few animals find new homes. During the show, several pets up for adoption were introduced to the crowd.

Friends Forever Manager Carol Falconer said that they had at least six pet adoptions at the event, but that number will grow.

“We are still working on applications for people (who attended the event) that want to adopt,” Falconer said. “Practically everyone who came asked for a tour.”

The show drew over 100 cars and awarded over 40 prizes. The event was held Sunday, a day after Freeport’s annual Cruise Night, which officials estimate drew 12,000 people. Mueller said the two events could make for a great destination weekend for car lovers.

Mueller and Friends Forever have already decided to do it again next year.

“It was just a fantastic event,” said Falconer. “We just had fun — everyone had a good time, including the animals.”

For more information on Friends Forever, contact (815) 232-6164 or visit friendsforeverhs.org. Friends Forever is holding a “cat special” until the end of August. All adult cats (over one year old) can be adopted for $20.